The Moser Medical Graz99ers have achieved an excellent starting position in the final series against HC Falkensteiner Pustertal with two clear successes. On Sunday (4:30 p.m., live on ORF 1) in the completely sold-out Merkur Ice Stadium, the Styrians already have the chance to make it 3-0 in the best-of-seven series and thus secure four championship pucks.
In the second final game, Pustertal was also strong for long stretches and created numerous opportunities, but lacked the necessary efficiency in front of the goal. The South Tyroleans repeatedly failed because of Graz goalie Nicolas Wieser, who more than adequately represented the injured Maxime Lagacé as a backup and has played an outstanding series of finals so far. In addition, the goal rods prevented a possible hit for the HCP several times.
Graz’s defense in particular has set the decisive tone so far. Until the 4-0 scoreline in the second final game, all of the goals were scored by defenders – impressive evidence of the offensive qualities of the defenders around the postseason league leaders. Overall, the 99ers once again impressed with their team unity and cool-headedness in the crucial moments.
Another key to success was the Styrians’ compact penalty killing. Four power play opportunities remained unused for Pustertal in the second final because Graz acted extremely disciplined defensively and hardly allowed any dangerous shots. The 99ers also had advantages at the faceoff point: in game two they won twelve more faceoffs than their opponent and thus repeatedly gained important control of the screen.
With now 14 wins in a row and ten consecutive playoff successes, the Graz team are heading into the third final game with a lot of self-confidence.
The statistics also speak for the 99ers: In nine best-of-seven final series in the league so far, a team has been able to build a 2-0 lead – this team also ended up being champions eight times. Only in 2010 did the EHC Black Wings Linz squander such a lead and had to admit defeat to EC Red Bull Salzburg 2-4.
Additional emotions are also provided on Sunday: Manuel Ganahl will be honored for his 900th league game
win2day ICE Hockey League, April 19, 2026
16:30 Moser Medical Graz99ers – HC Falkensteiner Pustertal | LIVE on ORF1
Referees: NIKOLIC M., ZRNIC, Muzsik, Riecken
Standings in the “Best-of-Seven” final series:
2:0
ice.hockey , picture: Foppa Iwan – HC Pustertal
